Democracy

Strengthening democracy and promoting human rights are central objectives of Germany’s development policy. GIZ helps its partners to establish democratic systems and network all civil society actors. Together we find solutions to political, economic and societal challenges.

GIZ in transition

GIZ has undergone massive changes and evolved beyond recognition since the merger of GTZ, InWEnt and DED in 2011. It has grown in size and become more diverse.

Eine Gruppe von Menschen marschiert auf einer staubigen Straße im Kongo, viele tragen gelbe Wasserkanister auf dem Kopf. Eine Person hält ein Plakat hoch, auf dem auf Französisch steht: Exzellenz, Herr Gouverneur, wir fordern sauberes Wasser, um gegen Ebola zu kämpfen. Einige tragen traditionelle, bunte Kleidung, andere einfache Alltagskleidung.

‘I want to live my life without fear’

Activist Passy Mubalama campaigns in eastern Congo against extremism and violence and for women’s rights – with the support of the iDove network.

One team, more clout

Born out of the coronavirus crisis, the Team Europe concept now serves as a blueprint for EU-wide development cooperation.

Lives or livelihoods

The coronavirus crisis poses new and unprecedented challenges for every country, in particular developing nations.

Education at the core of EU-Africa Partnership

A guest column by Patrick Awuah, Founder and President of Ashesi University in Ghana

Aufnahme aus der Luft auf eine afrikanische Großstadt bei Sonnenuntergang, mit dichter Bebauung, Straßen, umgeben von üppigem Grün.

A renewed EU-Africa partnership fit to the global context

A guest column by Sandra Kramer, Director EU-AU relations, West and East Africa (DEVCO.D)

Strong voices for Europe

The economy, security, health and development: we asked experts on Europe for their views on the key topics shaping Germany’s presidency of the EU Council.

‘Mitigate the impact of the coronavirus pandemic’

Economist Siegfried Leffler has been Director of the GIZ Representation in Brussels since 2016. He manages GIZ’s cooperation activities with the institutions of the EU, primarily with the European Commission.

Wanted and threatened

People around the globe yearn for democracy – at least when it offers more than elections. Stefano Palestini explains why the Chilean example is a case in point.

Pooling forces for change

People are calling for political and economic participation. GIZ takes a holistic approach to fostering democratic principles and endeavours to involve pro-reform forces.

How do things stand?

Opinions, feelings and hypotheses about the state of democracy abound. A look at the world of facts and figures helps to put things in perspective.

Hidden Champions

There are many individuals and initiatives that have made invaluable contributions in the pursuit of civil rights and liberties. We have put together some